Assuming you have the chance to make c. 110k USD in a lower COL city such as Minneapolis, St Louis etc. while working 50-60h vs whatever MM IB (HW, Blair) makes, what would you choose?
The one role would lead to a job making c.400k while working 40-50h in a low COL city close to home while the alternative would be e.g. becoming a career banker at a MM IB
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What matters to you? I mean both are fine jobs and you may well exit post IB to Corp dev and make around the same. Is this as an associate? Are you post-MBA? What are your family commitments? Significant other? Kids? If you want to be a career banker or exit to the buy side do IB, if not take the corporate gig.
Idk how guys constantly working 60-70+ hours a week maintain a relationship, spend enough time with family etc. If your 110k gig in a LCOL city is really a 9-5, I'd say it's a no brainer, especially since you mention there's the opportunity to more than triple that over time (not sure how you know that). What's more important to you? A bit more money or your time?
MM IB
I'd take whichever was remote/wfh
I was in a similar situation and took the 110k working remote in a fun (relatively) low COL city working 50 hours gig. I feel sane and can still fuck around and go on dates, hang with friends, go out for dinner/drinks without always feeling crazy tired. Depends on your age and social situation. If you have a good circle/relationship established then I would take MM IB for sure. 160-200k and you still have the opportunity to hang w people whenever you can make it
You do IB to get a better exit op. If you have that option from the beginning take it!! Don't look bad. That is unless your dead set on PE .
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